The Verse
King James Version (KJV): “And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:”
New International Version (NIV): “Now the law requires the descendants of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people—that is, from their fellow Israelites—even though they also are descended from Abraham.”
English Standard Version (ESV): “And those descendants of Levi who receive the priestly office have a commandment in the law to take tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, though these also are descended from Abraham.”
Introduction
At first glance, Hebrews 7:5 might seem like a verse deeply embedded in Old Testament law, talking about tithes and the Levitical priesthood, but there’s more to it. This verse is a bridge that connects the Old Covenant to the New Covenant under Christ, leading to profound insights about the priesthood of Christ compared to the Levitical priesthood.
Historical Context
The book of Hebrews was written by an anonymous author, though some attribute it to Paul. It was written to Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament laws and customs, particularly the Levitical laws. The author of Hebrews used these understandings to reveal the supremacy of Jesus Christ.
Key Word Analysis
Levi: Levi is one of the sons of Jacob, whose descendants became the priests of Israel.
Priesthood: Refers to the office and duties of the priests.
Tithes: In Hebrew, the word for tithe is “maaser” which means a tenth part.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals the shift from the Old Covenant law, which required Levitical priests to collect tithes from their brethren, to the New Covenant under Christ. Christ, our High Priest, offers a better hope and covenant than the Levitical priesthood could.
Life Application
This verse encourages us to understand and appreciate the superiority of Christ’s priesthood. It reminds us that while we are no longer bound by the old law of tithing, we can still express our gratitude to God by giving willingly and joyfully.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My child, remember that I am your ultimate High Priest. In me, you find a love and grace that outshines the old laws. Give freely, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for what I have given you.”
Prayer Prompt
Loving Father, help us to remember the depth of Your love for us, and the grace that comes through Jesus Christ, our High Priest. May we give and serve not out of obligation, but out of love for you. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the significance of Levi in this verse?
Ans: Levi is significant as his descendants became the priests of Israel under the Old Covenant.
Ques: What is the purpose of tithes?
Ans: Tithes were a way for the people of Israel to support their priests and express their gratitude to God.
Ques: How does this verse relate to Jesus?
Ans: This verse sets the stage to reveal Jesus as our High Priest, superior to the Levitical priests.
Ques: Are Christians today required to tithe?
Ans: While tithing is not a requirement under the New Covenant, Christians are encouraged to give willingly and joyfully.
Related Verses
Hebrews 7:25: “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Hebrews 8:6: “But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.”
2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
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